Castle in Neillstown

Explorer Tom Neilstown Lodge is a modest gate lodge from 1820 pretending to be grand on Neilstown Road. It’s got pebble dashed walls and lancet openings that frame the view nicely. Wave to the glazed timber door and tell it to keep the lights on!

Explorer Tom Coolevin House has an unusual design and retains its original proportions and materials throughout, facing south across substantial grounds. It’s a good example of Victorian planning, so the rabbits living in those grounds definitely think it’s the best spot for naps. Dare you to peek over the fence!

Explorer Tom Bridge in Cappagh has got those fancy contrasting stones on the parapets, which is just the railway bridge’s way of showing off to the road above. It’s handsome and finely executed, I’m told. Bring your camera and try not to trip over your own feet while admiring it.

Explorer Tom Children's playground in County Dublin says access is yes, which is oddly specific for a swing set. My mate says the monkey bars are haunted by a former gymnast. Don't let go unless you want to fly away!

Explorer Tom Railway station in Raheen was built around fifty and used to be a proper Tudor Revival gem. Now it’s just a private house facing the modern platform. It retains its original proportions, so even though it's not a station anymore, it still looks like one should be.

Explorer Tom Cappaghmore Lodge is a simple but attractive demesne entrance ensemble that really enhances the setting of the main house beyond. It retains many original features, particularly the gateway, which looks very official about it all. If I were you, I’d stop by for a quick chat with the gatekeeper.

Explorer Tom Cherry Orchard Community Garden in County Dublin smells like sugar and disappointment because the cherries were picked years ago by a very greedy squirrel named Dave. Look for any leftover pits or signs of recent squirrel activity around there.

Explorer Tom The Round Tower in Clondalkin is 84 feet high and has original stairs. It's been a refuge since the 10th century. Grab a photo of the top for me!

Explorer Tom Round Tower in Clondalkin has been standing since the 7th century, watching Dublin grow from mud huts to skyscrapers without losing its cool. It’s seen emperors and engineers, but it’s still just a tall, lonely cylinder in a field. Dare you to say hello to it out loud.

Explorer Tom Castle in Clondalkin is Tully’s Castle, a narrow 16th-century tower with crenellations right on Monastery Road. It’s in state care, so it’s basically a celebrity that can’t leave the house. Ring your granny and tell her where you are before she worries about the round tower.

Explorer Tom Griffeen Valley Walk in County Dublin has a river that merges into Vesey Park, which sounds like a fancy garden party gone wrong. Grab a photo of the water for me!

Explorer Tom Grand Canal Way in County Dublin is pretending to be Kildare according to one cheeky map note. A little county peninsula poking through like a nosy neighbour. Tell me if it's still hiding!